PONANT is inviting you to enjoy an unforgettable experience along the Amazon River, on a 13-day expedition cruise. Aboard Le Champlain, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this mythical and impressive river in the heart of Brazil, following a brand-new itinerary.

You will board your ship in Manaus, a surprising city of almost 2 million people, at the confluence of the Amazon and the Rio Negro. You will then sail along the river from west to east, to discover the many treasures it conceals: dense and varied vegetation, tropical fruit, a host of animal species, hamlets, stilt houses, local boats… In spite of the developments brought by modern civilisation, this ecosystem – the only one of its kind in the world – remains the cradle of a protected tropical life, which you will be fortunate to witness.

At the confluence of the Tapajos and Amazon rivers, you will stop in Santarem, where you might be lucky enough to spot some extraordinary pink river dolphins (also called botos).

Le Champlain will then sail to the beautiful city of Belém, where you will be captivated by the huge open-air market and the walls of Forte do Presépio.

You will then leave the earth-coloured waters of the Amazon to join the Atlantic Ocean and make your way to the Salvation Islands, before disembarking in Cayenne, in French Guiana.

Subject to weather and river conditions. The expedition highlights, encounters with the wildlife and itineraries described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.

Highlights

Outings and shore visits in Zodiac®inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.

Discovering the Amazon, the river that holds all records: it is the river that carries the largest volume of water to the sea, it is the longest river in the world and the easiest to navigate, and its basin is fed by over a thousand tributaries…

LE CHAMPLAIN

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed staterooms, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 staterooms and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

As the first ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Champlain will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

1 April 2019 – Balaio

2 April 2019 – Santarem

2 April 2019 – Alter do Chao / Jari

Arrival 02/04/2019 at 12H30 . Departure 02/04/2019 at 19H30 .

Despite its image as an impenetrable land, the Amazon can be explored, even when one is not a hardened explorer. Aboard your ship, sail this river and journey deep into the heart of this green paradise, the Amazon, the rich exuberance of a wild symphony. From the Andes, the Amazon fights its way between Peru and Colombia to reach Brazil where it achieve its majestic breadth. This exceptional site is an unspoiled and secret refuge for thousands of animals and the handful of tribes who live here, far from any contact with the city, in harmony with nature. Aboard our Zodiac® dinghies, do not miss the daytime and nocturnal excursions to experience the surrounding environment.

3 April 2019 – Curua-Una

Arrival 03/04/2019 . Departure 03/04/2019 .

4 April 2019 – Guajara

Arrival 04/04/2019 . Departure 04/04/2019 .

5 April 2019 – Ilha Ituquara

Arrival 05/04/2019 . Departure 05/04/2019 .

5 April 2019 – Abacate, Strait of Breves

Arrival 05/04/2019 . Departure 05/04/2019 .

Through the “green corridor” of the Strait of Breves, discover the banks of the Amazon. Sailing via Guajara Bay, you will discover Santarem, a very lively city with a strong traditional style. A unique sight will appear before you: the dark waters of the Amazon will brush those of the Rio Tapajos without actually mixing, like two strokes of paint. A little further on, Alter do Chao will reveal its immaculate beaches.

6 April 2019 – Belem

Arrival 06/04/2019 at 07H00 . Departure 06/04/2019 .

The historical city of Belém stretches along the Bay of Guajar� on the Amazon Delta, at the northernmost tip of Brazil. Its lively waterfront is home to the century-old Ver-o-Peso market and its iconic turreted iron structure, the Mercado de Ferro. Nearby, mango tree-shaded streets lead to the neoclassic Da Paz Theatre, the Baroque cathedral of Sé and Presépio Fort, whose battlements look out over the old town and the bay. The Bosque Rodrigues-Alves Botanical Garden is a fascinating mini Amazonian forest in the middle of the city that was established in the 19th-century.

7 April 2019 – Belem

Arrival 07/04/2019 . Departure 07/04/2019 at 12H00 .

The historical city of Belém stretches along the Bay of Guajar� on the Amazon Delta, at the northernmost tip of Brazil. Its lively waterfront is home to the century-old Ver-o-Peso market and its iconic turreted iron structure, the Mercado de Ferro. Nearby, mango tree-shaded streets lead to the neoclassic Da Paz Theatre, the Baroque cathedral of Sé and Presépio Fort, whose battlements look out over the old town and the bay. The Bosque Rodrigues-Alves Botanical Garden is a fascinating mini Amazonian forest in the middle of the city that was established in the 19th-century.

8 April 2019 – At sea

Arrival 08/04/2019 . Departure 08/04/2019 .

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observer marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

9 April 2019 – Iles du Salut

Arrival 09/04/2019 . Departure 09/04/2019 .

Cayenne

Disembarkation 10/04/2019 at 07H00 .

Capital of French Guyana located more than 7,000 km from the French mainland, Cayenne offers a harmonious ensemble of monuments, beaches and old creole houses on the eastern side of the South American continent. Between history and modernity, the city is marked by the presence of the former prisons, the vestiges of which can be seen on the Salvation Islands. This port of call will give you the opportunity to visit two museums, the Musée local de la Guyana and the Musée des cultures guyanaises, and learn more about the historic and cultural interests of the region. The Place des Palmistes, with its three soaring Guisanbourg palm trees, is the main square in Cayenne It provides the setting for a variety of events throughout the year.

Formalities

The information below is current but subject to change at any time without advance notice from government authorities. Please consult your respective government agencies for visa and health information.

Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the completion of your trip. Passport must contain at least two completely clear, blank, unused visa pages for each visa required, not including any amendment pages. Visa pages with stains or ink from other pages in the passport are not usable. Guests who deviate from the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port should research the foreign entry requirements for the port country. Due to government regulations, regrettably, Ponant will have to deny boarding to any guest who fails to obtain the appropriate travel documentation for this trip.

Brazil: Should you need a visa for Brazil, we strongly recommend you start the necessary application process early.

USA: Should your flight transit via the USA, a visa or ESTA may be required. Please contact USA consulate website for details.

Yellow fever inoculation is compulsory. You will need to bring with you your original proof of international yellow fever vaccination. Should you fail to bring your valid certificate, you will be denied boarding.

Theme

EXPEDITION

Exploring the world’s extreme regions while enjoying luxury comfort and service: that is the unique Expedition Cruise concept brought to you by Ponant, the world’s leading polar cruise specialist.

Exceptional itineraries

Ponant Expedition cruises take you off the beaten path, for true adventures that are both authentic and refined. We have designed a large number of itineraries just for you, to give you access to exceptional lands all around the globe. From the Arctic to the Antarctic via Alaska, South America or Oceania, each luxury Expedition is the promise of a different and unique cruise experience.

A luxury expedition voyage

No matter which destination you choose, you will always find the same exceptional standards of comfort, service and elegance that have forged Ponant’s reputation. Our sisterships have earned Class Comfort 1 certification and can sail in the world’s most extreme regions, whilst offering an intimate and refined luxury atmosphere and environment. A certain idea of luxury, a way of experiencing cruising... differently.

Discovering the wonders of the world

The hikes, excursions and Zodiac outings organised during your Expedition cruise provide ample opportunity for you to discover the hidden treasures of these regions. With guidance from our experienced naturalists, lecturers and guides, you will be able to approach a rich and unfamiliar wildlife and flora and meet little-known tribes and ethnic groups. On board and on land, our specialists will provide a cultural, historical or geological dimension, and will take great pleasure in answering all of your questions.

Important information

Expeditions programs include activities such as Zodiac® outings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes. All this accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides. Certain zodiac® outings will not allow for landings just cruising. Landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice and winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time.

Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. The raw beauty and untouched wilderness offer an unusual chance to experience a place where there is little evidence of human presence. Inevitably, there are some consequences that come with such remoteness: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is highly expensive. Without the necessary medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid from with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe a full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully and be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive.

Taking into consideration the unusual and exceptional character of expedition itineraries, the calls shown are an indication only. The final route will be confirmed by the Captain and Expedition Leader, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. Their decision will be subject to that of local authorities and/or the expert pilots present on board during the navigation in polar and /or isolated zones.

Dressing tips :

Cotton comfrortable and light weight shorts/bermudas

Light weight long trousers

Long-sleeved breathable UPF50+ shirts

Cotton short sleeves T-shirt

Aquatic UV long-sleeve T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming (except for the Amazon cruises where bathing is not allowed)

Aquatic non-slip sandals (except for the Amazon cruises where bathing is not allowed)

Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer

Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap

Comfortable walking shoes

Waterproof backpack for camera

Sunscreen and after-sun high index & insect repellent

Binoculars

Note: During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.

Feel free to visit the PONANT online shop which offers a selection of equipment and accessories adapted to our destinations at the following address: http://boutique.ponant.com.

Benefits of the PONANT shop:

expert advice to gear up

a selection of technical equipment and accessories approved by our naturalists

Pre/Post & Overlands

Before your cruise

1 night in transit in Miami (1 night)
28/03/2019

Meet and greet by our local representative at the Miami airport. Look for PONANT sign. Transfer to the Hilton Miami Airport Hotel 4* or similar. Check-in. Dinner at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 Miami

Early check-out. Snack for breakfast. Transfer to the Miami airport.

Your hotel

Hilton Miami Airport Hotel

The Hilton Miami Airport Hotel is located on a peninsula overlooking the Blue Lagoon and is just 10 minutes from Miami airport. The hotel offers access to beaches and attractions. Enjoy the 100-acre natural lake with jogging trail, outdoor pool and tennis and basketball courts.

Your programme includes:

1-night accommodation at the Hilton Miami Airport Hotel

English speaking assistance

The programme does not include:

Visa Fees if necessary

Personal expenses

Other services not mentioned in the programme

Contact for your hotel:

Hotel Hilton Miami Airport

5101 Blue Lagoon Drive

Miami, FL 33126

United States of America

For the times of your Ponant flight, please contact your adviser; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

South Miami Beach and Art Deco district (2 nights)
27/03/2019

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Take advantage of two days to discover some of Miami’s most emblematic places while visiting on foot its Art Deco and historical districts.

A PONANT escort will greet you upon disembarkation, and will accompany you during this programme.

Day 1 - Miami

Meet and greet by our local representative at the Miami airport. Look for PONANT sign.

After being welcomed by our local representative, you will be transferred to the Stanton by Marriott Hotel 4*.

Check-in.

Dinner at leisure.

Day 2 - Miami

Depart across the causeway to South Beach. Upon arrival, enjoy a walking tour of the Art Deco District, an architectural delight featuring more than 800 art deco style buildings within one square mile. The 1925 “Exposition internationale des Arts décoratifs industriels et modernes”, which celebrated living in the modern, industrial world, was the foundation of Art Deco. The art and architecture that was developed between the two World Wars, during the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression of the Thirties featured crisp geometric lines and patterns, vibrant colours, simple yet sophisticated shapes that were often streamlined and aerodynamic.

Together with your guide take a leisurely stroll around the Art Deco District to take in many of these interesting structures that have been restored to their original splendour. The walk is approximately 1 mile in distance and is covered by slow walking and standing for 1 ¼ hour.

Following the walk some free time is afforded to browse the surrounding streets. At the appointed time, rejoin your guide for the transfer to lunch at a bayside location.

En-route to lunch, enjoy a panoramic drive through downtown Miami taking in the highlights such as the Freedom Tower and America Airlines Arena. Lunch is a grand buffet of hot, cold, and grilled specialties accompanied by beer or wine. Following lunch, a few minutes of free time is afforded to browse the local shops by the restaurant.

Transfer back to your hotel.

Rest of the afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Day 3 - Miami/Manaus

Early check-out. Snack for breakfast.

Transfer to the Miami airport.

Your hotel:

Hotel Stanton by Marriott is a luxurious ocean front Miami hotel, adjacent to the vibrant South Beach Art Deco District and the beach. Guests can lounge in the infinity edge pool, stay active in the fitness centre, or escape to the full-service spa. A small cooler, flat-screen cable TV with internet capabilities, and coffee-making facilities are featured in all guest rooms. Select Marriott Stanton South Beach rooms include a city, coast, or ocean view.

After your cruise

Islet la Mère & djokan martial art
10/04/2019

Enjoy a trouble-free journey and let Ponant organise your transfer between your final port and the airport.

Cayenne/Ilet la Mère

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative. You will leave the port and head to downtown Cayenne to discover its traditional market. You will then be transferred to the marina to board a small motor boat and sail to Ilet la mère, a journey that takes around 30 minutes. When you arrive, you will be welcomed by a colony of monkeys, the Saïmiris, which live on the island. The journey around the island follows a signposted route. During this walk, you will discover the vestiges of the jail and traces of the most ancient occupants of the island, such as engraved rocks and polishing tools, which are unexpected discoveries for this destination. All along the route, the coastal conservation department has erected noticeboards giving information about the island. Most of the ruins visible on Ilet la mère date from the time of the jail there: the hospital, bell tower, church and the prisoner buildings… The walk lasts about 90 minutes and covers some 3.5 km.

At the end of this visit, you will return to the marina and have lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch, you will stroll to a square to watch a demonstration of Djokan, an Amazonian martial art created by Yannick Theolade, combining a number of ancestral disciplines coming from various ethnic groups (Amerindians, Africans, Bushi Ningue…). Nature is a key element in the practice of Djokan, which is inspired by it. This demonstration will allow you to discover ancestral techniques and postures, surpassing one's limits, and cultivating self-confidence, balance and respect between people, nature and various cultures, the respect for traditions. You will then be transferred to Cayenne airport.

This programme includes a walk of around 3.5 km on a pathway around the island.

This post-cruise programme is limited to 50 participants

Durations are indicative and the order of visits may change. For the times of your Ponant flight, please contact your adviser; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Kaw marshes & Islet la Mère (1 night)
10/04/2019

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Enjoy two unforgettable days discovering the region around Cayenne and continue your exploration of the country’s flora and fauna by visiting the Marshlands of Kaw and the historical Ilet La Mère. This programme with its rich discoveries will be the perfect epilogue to your cruise.

A PONANT escort will greet you upon disembarkation, and will accompany you during this programme.

Day 1 -Marshlands of Kaw

You will be welcomed at the port by our local representative. After having completed disembarking formalities, you will leave the port and head to the Kaw reserve, which takes 90 minutes by coach.

When you reach Kaw, you will board a motorised pirogue boat and will visit this magnificent reserve, the largest wetland and the third largest nature reserve in France with its surface area of 234,000 acres (94,700 ha). A naturalist guide will accompany you during this discovery of the rich and varied wildlife, particularly the bird life of this biotope: herons, ospreys, kingfishers, sandpipers… You will sail along part of the Wapou Creek which gradually heads deeper into the primary, flooded forest. There you will find remarkable plant varieties and will be serenaded by the sounds of the forest.

After a visit to Kaw village, you will lunch in a typical restaurant. In the afternoon, you will continue your journey and your discovery of the marsh. After this day of visiting, you will drive to the Royal Amazonia 4* hotel to freshen up before dinner.

You will leave your hotel early in the morning and be taken to the marina, to board a small motor boat heading to Ilet La Mère, a natural and historic space you will reach after thirty minutes of navigation.

When you arrive, you will be welcomed by a colony of monkeys, the Saimiris, which live on the island. The journey around the island follows a signposted route. During this walk, you will discover the vestiges of the jail and traces of the most ancient occupants of the island, such as engraved rocks and polishing tools, which are unexpected discoveries for this destination. All along the route, the coastal conservation department has erected notice-boards giving information about the island. Most of the ruins visible on Ilet La Mère date from the time of the jail there: the hospital, bell tower, church and the prisoner buildings… The walk lasts about 90 minutes and covers some 2 miles (3.5 km).

At the end of this visit, you will return to the marina and have lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch, you will stroll to a square to watch a demonstration of Djokan, an Amazonian martial art created by Yannick Theolade, combining a number of ancestral disciplines coming from various ethnic groups (Amerindians, Africans, Bushi Ningue…). Nature is a key element in the practice of Djokan, which is inspired by it. This demonstration will allow you to discover ancestral techniques and postures, surpassing one's limits, and cultivating self-confidence, balance and respect between people, nature and various cultures, the respect for traditions.

You will then be transferred to Cayenne airport.

Your hotel:

Modern, chic and designer, the Royal Amazonia 4* hotel is attractive for its subtle blend of contemporary décor and high-end facilities, coupled with a refined atmosphere of oriental feel. The hotel’s bedrooms are spacious and comfortable. One hour of access to the spa is included in your package. Everything here is designed to help you relax.

This programme includes a walk of around 2 miles (3.5 km) on a pathway around the island.

This post-cruise programme is limited to 40 participants.

Contact of your hotel:

45 rue de L'Ara bleu - Route de Zéphir

97300 CAYENNE (Guyane Française)

Telephone number: +594 39 15 15

Fax: +594 30 13 13

Durations are indicative and the order of visits may change. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel adviser; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Attention: the prices listed at the time of your reservation can be different from those listed in the brochure. These prices can evolve based on availability and the real time rates of the airline companies selected.

Travellers are advised to check all the information with the authorities concerned prior to the departure date. Ponant advises Travellers to consult the country factsheets relating to the chosen destinations. Ponant specifically draws Travellers' attention to the fact that the information provided may change up until the departure date, and they are advised to consult that information up until the time of departure. CDP invites Travellers to adjust their behavior to the visited country, to exercise vigilance and to avoid carrying valuable objects during their travel.